Mobius for Safe Mobility
Mobius, A Modular Rail System for Assisted Mobility
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel modular, expandable rail system that can be easily installed to modify existing living spaces to improve accessibility in the homes of those with mobility issues. Mobius, consists of a structural track which will serve as an anchor for a wide range of accessibility devices including handrails, grab bars, and stair lifts, which can be added to the Mobius as the needs or desires of the user change.

Overview

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Advantages

Current go-to approaches that modify homes to assist with mobility include grab bars and stairlifts that can be unsightly, and if incorrectly installed, can increase the risk of falls and injury, or provide obstructions to others living in the home

Mobius will be made from low-cost materials providing an affordable, interchangeable, easy-to-install, adaptable system that can be used in place of architectural molding in a home.

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Versatility

Mobius is designed to be compatible with off-the-shelf aids such as grab bars and hoists to afford flexibility to users as their needs change.
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Stage of Development

Prototype track has been developed.

Fatigue testing has been performed in a lab setting and feedback from potential users, installers and manufacturers has been gathered. 

Additionally, in-home testing has also been carried out in several residential units operated by Community Living and Support Services of Pittsburgh.

Mobius Marketing Sell Sheet
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Paulina Villacreces
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Alexandra Delazio

Meet the Pitt Innovators

Jonathan Pearlman, PhD

Chair and Associate Professor, Dept. of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, University of Pittsburgh

David Brienza, PhD
Associate Dean for Technology and Innovation, SHRS, and Professor, Dept. of RST, University of Pittsburgh
 
Alton Everette James III, JD, MBA
M. Allen Pond Professor, Health Policy and Management, Director, Health Policy Institute (HPI), Associate Vice Chancellor for Health Policy and Planning, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences

Paulina Villacreces, Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology

Todd Hargroder

Alexandra Marie Delazio